Tag Archive | "travel"

Just because you step on a plane does not mean you are a tourist. Many of us travel overseas on business, which means that although you have been to a country you may not have actually seen it.

High-flying business people rack up air miles as second nature, pretty much living in a time zone all on their own with an extensive list of hotels they have stayed in around the world. This lifestyle is not for everyone, of course, as it takes a special person to be able to live life in the fast lane, interacting with associates from all different cultures on a regular basis.

Travelling Business Class

Business class is a magical place that we know exists, but most of us will never experience. For CEOs of major companies, however, this is the only way to travel due to its exclusivity. Only high-ranking personnel travel business class, due to the prices that airlines charge.

What you can expect is lounge access and service on top with flight attendants always willing to go out of their way to meet your every request. Long-haul flights can be uncomfortable, with nothing more than a screen and a set of headphones to keep you company for eight hours. In business class, however, you are treated to a wining and dining experience not out of place at the finest restaurants in the world, and a place to sleep in a comfortable horizontal position.

The champagne flows and, for all hard-working associates, Wi-Fi access is usually on offer for those that wish to stay connected, even when 39,000 feet up in the air.

Where to Stay

Picking the best place to stay can be difficult, but as long as you check off the main key areas then you should be okay. These are:

Other hotel chains offer luxury accommodation on the doorstep of most major airports, specifically targeting high-ranking business people as they travel to and from meetings and conferences.

Making Time for Sight Seeing

Business people will find they have little to no time for sightseeing and being able to get out and explore their new domain, which is a shame. However, it is not unknown for associates to fit this into the schedule as a means of an ice breaker, in much the same way as a round of golf.

Businesses often look to impress visitors by showing them the sights of their local cities, especially if they are based in places such as London, New York and Paris, where you are spoilt for choice of where to take your guests.

Travelling Home

At the end of the trip, when it is time to return home or embark on your next destination, it is important to enjoy a meal before leaving. Good business practice is for the hosts to take their guests out to dinner before leaving, which means enjoying the finest in culinary excellence to celebrate a productive trip and/or a new deal between two parties.

Travelling business class is a whole different world from what the casual tourist is used to but, if you ever have the opportunity to spoil yourself with a seat in business class, it will be an experience that you never forget. Is it worth it? Decide for yourself.

New Zealand is a land of dramatic landscapes, lush green meadows, and steep rocky cliffs. It’s an unbeatable tourist destination, where you can start your day off skiing in the ice valleys and finish it relaxing on the sun-soaked beach. No wonder that New Zealand regularly ranks in the top positions of world’s best countries list.

Are you lucky enough to be heading there for your next vacation? Or are you just looking for reasons to include it in your bucket list? If you want to get the most out of it and your time (or budget) is too limited to see it all, opt for a South Island tour of New Zealand. The larger and less populous of the country’s two major islands invites you to become filled with wonder at the world’s most spectacular sceneries. Read on and taste at least five of them!

Marlborough and its beautiful Sounds

Less than 400 kilometers north from Christchurch lies the beautiful region of Marlborough. Known for its world-class wineries, this place mainly attracts those who seek leisurely spent holidays at a slower, more relaxing pace. While sipping from their glasses of delicious wine, visitors can marvel at the unique beauty of Marlborough’s famous Sounds – 1500 kilometers of waterways created when the Pacific Ocean filled the dried valleys of New Zealand’s ancient rivers. Enjoy clear seas and sandy bays from the deck of a boat, or stretch your body kayaking in this scenic environment. You can even take a hike through the wild forests surrounding the picturesque coastline.

Milford Track: the finest hiking trail in the world

Just a short drive away from Queensland lies one of the world’s most popular hiking trails – and definitely the finest one in the country. Milford track is a 53,5 kilometers long walk through the magnificent valleys used firstly by Maori people for the gathering and transportation of precious stones. The trek can be completed in 4 days will take you along some of the country’s top sites like the second biggest lake called Te Anau, second highest waterfall called Sutherland, and of course Milford Sound with its indescribable views. No wonder this track has approximately 14000 visitors each year! But don’t worry about the crowds as the park allows only 90 trekkers a day to enter it, leaving plenty of space for an undisturbed and tranquil experience.

Otago central rail trail

Originally serving as an important railroad, this track now invites keen cyclists to explore New Zealand’s South Island from the saddle of their bikes. This scenic trail will take you five days and you will be introduced to the rich history of Zealand’s gold mining. Admire unique landscapes during the day, and then chill in the country pubs at the evening. Forget about civilization and enjoy the adventure in some of the most remote parts of the island’s inland. The trail itself is the biggest non-farming source of income in this area, which probably speaks for its unspoiled character more than anything else!

Abel Tasman beaches

No trip to New Zealand would be complete without taking some time off at local magnificent beaches. The best ones on the larger of island can be found in the Abel Tasman National Park near its northern tip. They can accommodate literally any taste! Surfing, kayaking, swimming, and all kinds of water activities can be enjoyed here to the fullest. Spend a night under the stars in Anchorage campsite, or choose one of more sophisticated lodges. And don’t forget to walk to the nearby Cleopatra’s Pool – wonderful natural rocks pool fed by the stream with unusual yellowish waters.

Franz Josef Glacier

Tired of sunbathing? Head to the Westland Tai Poutini National Park on South Island’s West coast to enjoy a completely different environment. Yes, it’s going to be cold, white, and slippery, so bring over your skis and jackets! Franz Josef Glacier will help you understand the great power of moving masses of snow that have formed most of New Zealand’s natural beauty. Sadly, it will also give you an opportunity to see the impact of global warming at its worst, as the glacier has rapidly retreated in the past decade. Another good reason not to postpone your South Island tour of New Zealand any more!

New Zealand’s north island offers just about every type of activity imaginable, yet the most exciting are undoubtedly its natural attractions. From geysers to waterfalls and even glow-in-the-dark animals, everything is a relatively quick drive away. There are so many ways of getting around New Zealand, from buses and coaches in Auckland to car rental in Takapuna. Once you’re on the island, there’s no excuse not to experience New Zealand’s five best natural attractions.

1. Indulge in the bubbling mud pools of Rotorua

Rotorua is a Geothermal heaven, known for its volcanoes, stunning landscapes, and traditional Maori culture. Situated around a lake and geothermal fields, this beautiful destination is a true treat for the eyes. You can soak in as many healing properties as humanly possible in a bubbling mud bath, but if mud just isn’t your thing, there are plenty of thermal swimming pools available as well. When you want to completely dazzle your senses, try standing under a natural hot waterfall!

2. Explore the Waitomo Glowworm Caves

If you like to play outside after dark, you simply must experience the Waitomo Glow Worm Caves. These world famous caves are home to the miraculous Arachnocampa Luminosa glow worms, found only in New Zealand. When you take a guided tour through these dreamlike caves you will get to explore three different levels, including a boat ride through the underground Waitomo River. By the end of the tour, the only light in the cave will be from the glow worms themselves. In addition to the “living lights”, you will also see a great deal of geologic history on this tour such as fossils and limestone formations.

3. Cross through epic volcanic activity in Ruapehu

Partake on a challenging, but breathtaking, journey through volcanic landscapes on the Tongariro Alpine Crossing. On this track, you will be walking right alongside edges of old lava flows, accompanied by the authentic smell of sulfur. On this incredible day trip, you will run into three water-filled explosions craters, known as the Emerald Lakes. It’s easy to get lost in their immaculately bright green waters. Past these lakes, you can continue on to Blue Lake which is an impressively old volcanic vent. Start the journey at Mangatepopo Valley near Whakapapa and spend three to four hours in sheer fascination of planet earth.

4. Discover Marine Wildlife on Hawke’s Bay coast

Discover the exciting wildlife of Te Angiangi Marine Reserve, and you’ll be amazed at what you see. Whether you prefer to walk around the tide pools or get all the way in the water for a snorkeling session, you’ll surely see something new. Common wildlife found in the tide pools include crabs, sea urchins, and beds of Neptune’s necklace. If you’re willing to go a bit deeper, you can experience the sight of reef animals such as pua, red and blue moki, butterfish, nudibranchs sea slugs, and much more.

5. White Water Raft on the Tongariro River

If you’re a daredevil and more importantly not afraid of getting a little bit wet, embark on the ride of your life on the Tongariro River. As one of New Zealand’s most famous rivers, the Tongariro offers volcanic cliffs, crystal clear water, and rainbow trout swimming upstream. You will hardly be able to take your eyes off the gorgeous surroundings as you take on these magnificent white water rapids.

People love to travel. It’s just a fact of life that we enjoy visiting new places, seeing new sights and interacting with different people. You’d be hard-pressed to find someone who never had a desire to visit some place new.

But most would agree that the act of traveling — the long hours on trains and planes and inside cars — can be a little frustrating. The good news is that today’s technology companies have designed a lot of great gadgets and apps with travelers in mind. Here are a few of the coolest things travelers can look for today before they head out on their adventure to new places.

A Travel-Sized Washing Machine

Well, technically it’s not a machine, but it sure acts as if it was one. This small, portable, easy-to-use bag can take all of the hassles out of doing your laundry, whether you’re on a business trip in a big city or out the wilderness under the stars.

All you need is about a gallon of water and a little bit of washing soap and you can have a garment of nearly any size cleaned in no time. The bag has hundreds of silicon scrubbers that get out grease and grim when you fill it with the water and soap and use your hands to shake and agitate it. Then, after four or five minutes, you empty the bag and use fresh water to rinse your clothes.

You’ll still need to dry your clothes the old-fashioned way, but you can save time and money while traveling by washing your clothes on your own.

A Great Alarm Clock App

No matter where your travels take you, you’ll probably need to wake up at a reasonable hour, whether it’s to make it to an appointment on time or just to get the most out of your day. The Alarm Clock for Me (available on Google Play) is a great app to do just that.

The app turns your smartphone into a bedside alarm clock with easy-to-read numbers and a pleasing layout. You can set it to wake you up with a traditional alarm sound or with music from your playlists. You can also set a sleep timer with music from your device if you need a little help falling asleep.

Stay Connected With a Friend

If you are going somewhere where there’s no phone reception, this device can connect your smartphone with another one in the area so the devices act like a two-way radio. You can also send messages and receive GPS data.

The device works for several miles, so it’s great for backpackers and hikers who may become separated in the wilderness. Just pair the devices with the antenna and you create a personal network that works in all kinds of terrain. You can check in with your friends or send each other photos without service.

The are travel gadgets and apps out there for people no matter what they’re looking for.

Need to “get outta Dodge” in a hurry, but you don’t want to rock the proverbial business boat? Stop worrying. We just happen to know about several Android apps that will help you take a last minute trip without feeling guilty. Here are some of our favorites.

Go anywhere for less

If you have a particular destination in mind and aren’t attached to exact travel dates, Hopper may be the perfect app for you. Hopper comes with a number of features that allow users to make price comparisons up to six months into the future. Simply download and install Hopper, then input your preferred destination. Instantly, the app delivers price forecasts that can give you a better idea of when to book your flight reservations. Hopper includes nearby airport comparisons, too. Call a friend, tell them you’re recording and keep their driving directions of hotel recommendation on file for easy reference later on. Learn more at Google Play.

If you simply want to get out of town and don’t particularly care where you go, download GTFO travel app for iOS or Android devices. Also known as Get The Flight Out, this handy app offers instantaneous info about flights leaving local airports within the next several hours, says AndroidCentral reviews.

Stay better for less

HotelTonight will help you book a nice room with almost no notice whatsoever. If you’re a seasoned traveler, you know that finding a room on the same day can be a daunting task. Install HotelTonight, and browse a range of discounted rooms in your location in real time, suggests Outside Online magazine. SecretEscapes is another Android app that helps users find hidden gems for amazing rates. It works a bit like Groupon with an ever-changing assortment of great getaways for budget minded travelers.

AirBnB is the ideal app for travelers on a budget. In lieu of paying for a pricey hotel room on a business trip, reserve a space in a lovely private home for a fraction of the price. This alternative travel modality is right for millennials, business owners, conference attendees and others who would rather spend their money on a good time in a faraway destination than on a boring hotel room. AirBnB app is available for a range of devices. Browse properties by amenities, price range, nearby attractions and other features with this must-have travel app.

Things to do when you’re traveling

Look for off-limits airport lounges at the last-minute with LoungeBuddy. Frequent business flyers may be granted easier access to VIP areas when they have this cool app on their smartphone. Relax pre-flight or enjoy a delicious meal before jumping onto your next flight. Just download the app, tell it who you are and a little about your travel habits. Note if you are a military member and let LoungeBuddy find every amenity to which you may be entitled.

Ease your mind and your pocketbook, too, when you avail yourself of clever travel apps for Android phones and devices. Travel smarter, use the right apps, and you can save your sanity every time you travel on business or for pleasure.

Although exotic and spectacular, Bali is surprisingly a not so expensive travel destination. It’s actually budget-friendly, if you know how to plan and you do it ahead. The ongoing waves of tourists visiting the island did not make the prices go up, luckily. Seasoned visitors say that $50 a day is good enough if you’re committed to enjoying Bali. Here’s what you need to pay attention to for staying within the budget:

The transport

Apart from flights (which you must book in advance), every region in Bali will require you to find an affordable means of transportation, because you’ll be visiting around. Taxis are convenient, but also the most pricey. To spare your budget, you could rent a motorbike, which can be only $3 per day. Also, it’s fun. If you’re not inclined to drive yourself, then opt for a motorbike with a driver.

The accommodation

Bali hotels are for the rich. Hostels and other places for backpackers are cheap but can be such a nuisance. Instead, why not choose private villa accommodation, since prices can be as low as $11 a night? If you’re bringing a group of friends along, you can all stay within the same house, as long as you pick the correct bedroom count. Bali luxury villas Seminyak offers are ideal for those with a taste for comfort and style, so if you’re going to Seminyak you must consider those.

Eating out

While hotel restaurants treat guests to delicious local dishes, like spicy noodle soup or the amazing martabak pancakes, street food is also recommended to the curious. This is incredibly cheap – you can eat well with less than $2. Don’t be shy and visit a warung as well – this is the generic term for local Balinese restaurants with smaller prices than the hotel ones. Stay away from European-owned or other such venues, because those are pricey.

Is the spa worth it?

If you’re in for a spa treatment, start with a massage house. The expense is minimal (around 6$) and is worth it. One hour of massage is definitely rejuvenating. Of course, the more you add to it (herbal essences, oils etc.), the more expensive it becomes. Stay away from spas situated within facilities such as a luxury hotel.

Beach activities

Who can stay away from surfing, parasailing or other beach and water sports in Bali? The weather conditions and the whole setting are marvelous after all. Even better, you can negotiate the price, especially if you’re opting for more of the kind or if you’re not alone.

What to avoid

Besides what was already mentioned, there are several other temptations that can waste your hard-earned money. One of them is the overpriced cocktail, latte or even beer or water bottle. Then, souvenir shops and markets may make you spend more than planned; make sure you have a clear idea of what you want and resist the impulse to buy more. Concerning flight tickets, book anything related early on. Any late purchase from the airline may cost you more. Buy everything online in advance.

Before departure, remember to check how much your bank charges for ATM withdrawals and credit card usage. Tourists, who forget this detail, are later shocked to see they have much less money in the bank than expected.

Known as Australia’s cultural capital, it’s no surprise that Melbourne’s love of art and design has extended to its city streets. Whether you stick close to the CBD or venture out to the suburbs, there is no shortage of amazing artworks to see on a visit to Melbourne.

See why Melbourne is quickly becoming one of the world’s most famed graffiti destinations with our guide to the city’s best street art.

Hosier Lane

The city’s quintessential laneway when it comes to floor-to-ceiling murals and big, bold tags, Hosier Lane is a must on any street art itinerary. While its central location opposite Federation Square make it prone to crowds, the ever-evolving artworks that adorn its walls are still more than worth a look.

Union Lane

Part of Melbourne’s ongoing initiative to cement its position as the arts capital of Australia, the city commissioned dozens of talented artists to transform Union Lane into a living outdoor gallery. Constantly changing to include new artworks, this inner-city street art display is one of the best in the CBD.

Johnston Street

Nestled in the up-and-coming arts hub of Abbotsford, Johnston Street isn’t just a haven for street art. While its outdoor pieces are amongst the most spectacular in Melbourne, its proximity to a number of galleries, cafes, boutiques and studios make it the perfect starting point for an all-round culture crawl.

Chapel Street

The first port of call for savvy shoppers staying in Melbourne, this trendy retail precinct also happens to be a mecca for street art enthusiasts. Whether you peruse the colourful pieces found in ‘Aerosol Alley’ or window shop along the main drag, this fashionable borough has a type of art to suit every taste.

Croft Lane

One of the CBD’s best-kept secrets, the narrow thoroughfare that is Croft Lane explodes with vibrant hues both day and night. Take a trip to this back alley in the daylight before doubling back after dark, when the soft red glow of string lights overhead offer an entirely new perspective.

ACDC Lane

While it may glean its name from world-famous Aussie rock band, ACDC, this charming laneway is more famous for its street art than it is for its musical muses. Less crowded than some of the city’s other hotspots, visitors to ACDC Lane can catch a glimpse of amazing, street-style portraits without having to fight for photo space.

Enviably located in the heart of Melbourne’s bustling CBD, Radisson on Flagstaff Gardens offers the perfect base to lose yourself amidst the city’s laneways and alleys. Plan your stay today and discover the city’s most amazing street art from the comfort and luxury of a Melbourne hotel.

There’s no shortage of things to do in Paris for travelers, it’s one of Europe’s most visited cities and its attractions and monuments have thousands upon thousands of tourists coming each year to capture a selfie with the Mona Lisa or post with the Eiffel Tower. Trip4real, the peer to peer startup that’s making waves around Europe (having recently been named one of Europe’s hottest travel startups!) has expanded into Paris. It’s aim is to connect travelers from all over with local people from a city. Why? Because isn’t travel all about getting a little closer to a distant culture?

So now visiting Paris with local insiders means you can find the hidden gems in the city that’s full of the usual tourist traps. Why not take the time to go off the beaten path and try something a little different?

Having a picnic in a Parisian forest

Who knew Paris had a forest? Having a picnic in a forest, near a castle where the kings of France once lived does sound like the most idyllic thing in the world. And it probably is. Take yourself with insider Loreto to La Bois de Vincennes, known for its natural beauty and wonderful verdant greenery. Next to the forest is the impressive and regal Chateau de Vincennes, home to former royalty of France. A little class during one’s picnic is never a bad thing, right? Allons-y!

Make crepes like a local

Crepes. Delicious, delicious crepes. Crepes are always a good idea. Whether full of luxuriously melted chocolate and strawberries or stuffed with cheese and ham, these light pancakes are an absolute delight. Thank you France. Cuisine plays an important role in any culture so why not learn to indulge a little by taking a class with Leroy, crepe master? After all, it’s one skill that will definitely help you should you be stuck for dinner ideas. You’ll be one step closer to being Parisian. Voilà.

Shop in the city like never before

Shopping in Paris is a serious thing. You have all those world renowned brands whose home is found within the city of light. Chanel, Louis Vuitton, Dior, Yves Saint Laurent… you’ve heard of them all before. And, frankly, who really has the kind of money to shop in such opulence? That’s where thrift stores come in. Paris is full of them and taking a tour of its various flea and vintage markets is something that every traveler should do. And, hey, you might even find a Chanel for a fraction of the price. Not bad, huh?

There’s more to Paris than Mona Lisa

It’s true. Paris is full of art. It’s the birthplace of one of the most famous art movements of the 20th century, Impressionism, and the works of Monet, Renoir and Cézanne can all be found within the famous museums of Paris. But, it’s always fun to go and discover really cool, up and coming art in the city. In Le Marais neighborhood, there’s galleries galore that house art that you won’t find in the typical museums. A private tour of this neighborhood with a local art aficionado like Victor is something that will take you to new levels of culture. A must.

Make new friends & hit the town

One of the coolest things to do in Paris is heading out with a local who will show you their favourite bars. Bars you never thought existed. Le Comptoir General, for example. A brilliant bar but unknown to many travelers, a local’s secret, if you will. Yannick, a local from trip4real, invites travelers to join him and his friends for a journey through Paris’s nightlife. Discover neighborhoods, learn about the history of Paris, enjoy the flowing conversation and have a few glasses of wine. You’ll leave Paris feeling more local than when you arrived. A good plan, certainly.

And that’s only a few things to do in Paris for travelers. Truly off the beaten path, one of a kind experiences that you’d definitely want to tell your friends about. And who said Paris had to just be the Arc de Triomph and Le Louvre?